1. Buffalo Wild Wings (Avoid)
Buffalo Wild Wings has mastered the art of charging premium prices for underwhelming food. The wings are often tiny, overcooked, or drowning in sauce to hide their lack of flavor, Kyle Scott states in Crossing Board. Add in long wait times, inattentive service, and a loud, chaotic atmosphere, and it’s not exactly the best place to enjoy a meal. If you’re spending $20+ on wings and fries, you should at least get something memorable.
Another common complaint is how inconsistent the food quality is between locations. Some spots serve up crispy, well-seasoned wings, while others deliver dry, disappointing bites. On top of that, drinks and appetizers are wildly overpriced, making it easy for a casual night out to turn into a hefty bill. If you want great wings, there are far better spots to check out.
2. Subway (Avoid)
Subway likes to market itself as a fresh and healthy option, but as Kate Taylor explains in Business Insider, the quality isn’t what it used to be. The bread often tastes stale, the veggies can be limp, and the meat is anything but premium. Customers have also noticed that portion sizes have gotten smaller, making their “footlong” sandwiches feel more like nine-inch disappointments. For what you’re paying, you could get a much fresher sandwich elsewhere.
There have also been ongoing concerns about the ingredients, from the controversial “tuna” debate to the artificial additives in their bread. Even with their customization options, the flavors are pretty uninspired compared to newer sandwich spots. Plus, with all the upcharges for extras, your “cheap” sub can end up costing more than a quality deli sandwich. If you want a real sandwich experience, there are better places to go.
3. Applebee’s (Avoid)
Applebee’s used to be the go-to neighborhood grill, but lately, it’s been more about frozen food and microwaved entrees. The quality has taken a nosedive, with customers complaining about bland flavors and meals that taste reheated rather than freshly made, Taylor Rock reports in The Los Angeles Times. Prices, meanwhile, have crept up to the point where you could get a much better meal elsewhere for the same cost. If you’re paying over $15 for a mediocre plate of pasta or an underwhelming steak, it’s time to move on.
The biggest issue is inconsistency—you never know if your meal will be decent or just plain bad. Many locations suffer from slow service, and some dishes feel straight out of a TV dinner box. The once-popular 2-for-$20 deal has lost its appeal as portion sizes shrink. If you’re craving casual American fare, there are better options out there.
4. Chili’s (Avoid)
Chili’s might look tempting with its big menu and frequent promotions, but don’t be fooled. Many of their dishes rely heavily on frozen ingredients, and it shows in the taste. The burgers and fajitas that once made them famous now feel uninspired, with dry meat and minimal seasoning. If you’re paying sit-down restaurant prices, you should get something that tastes better than what you could make at home.
Another big downside is their service, which has become hit-or-miss depending on the location. Between long waits for food and orders that often arrive incorrect, the experience isn’t what it used to be. Even their famous margaritas have lost their edge, with some customers saying they taste watered down. If you want Tex-Mex or American comfort food, there are much better alternatives.
5. Domino’s (Avoid)
Domino’s once had a reputation for being the affordable, go-to pizza chain, but lately, that’s changed. As Jim Edwards reports in Business Age, the crust can be overly doughy or dry, and the toppings often feel sparse for the price. Meanwhile, their carryout deals aren’t as great as they used to be, with menu prices creeping up over time. If you’re craving good pizza, there are much tastier and more affordable local options.
Another issue is the unpredictability—one order might be great, while the next is a greasy mess with uneven toppings. And while they market their “specialty” pizzas as gourmet, they often taste like standard fast-food fare with a fancier name. Even their delivery service has faced complaints about long wait times and cold food. When it comes to pizza, you can do better.
6. Culver’s (Try Instead)
If you’re looking for quality fast food, Culver’s is a step above the competition, Crystal Ro from BuzzFeed claims. Their ButterBurgers are made with fresh (never frozen) beef, and you can actually taste the difference. They also have some of the best fast-food fries and milkshakes, not to mention their famous Wisconsin cheese curds. Unlike many chains, Culver’s consistently delivers on flavor and quality.
Their customer service is also a big win, with friendly employees and clean dining areas. Prices are reasonable for the quality you get, making it a great alternative to places like McDonald’s or Wendy’s. Their frozen custard is another highlight, offering a rich, creamy dessert that outshines typical soft serve. If you want a fast-food spot that actually cares about what it serves, Culver’s is a must-try.
7. Firehouse Subs (Try Instead)
For a sandwich that actually tastes fresh and flavorful, Firehouse Subs is a great pick. Unlike Subway, they steam their meats and cheeses, making for a hot, melty bite every time. Their portions are generous, and the ingredients taste noticeably higher quality. If you’re paying for a sandwich, it should actually feel like a meal—and Firehouse delivers.
Another reason to love Firehouse is their commitment to customer service and community giving. A portion of every purchase goes to first responders, so you’re supporting a good cause while enjoying your food. Their subs have a rich, smoky flavor that sets them apart from the competition. If you want a hearty, satisfying sandwich, this is the place to go.
8. Raising Cane’s (Try Instead)
Raising Cane’s keeps it simple—chicken fingers, fries, coleslaw, and Texas toast—but they do it right. Their chicken is always hot, crispy, and juicy, unlike the sad, dried-out tenders at many other chains. Their Cane’s Sauce is the real star, adding a tangy, peppery kick that keeps people coming back. If you love chicken, this place is worth the hype.
Another great thing about Raising Cane’s is the consistency—you know what you’re getting every time. The menu may be small, but that means they focus on doing one thing well. Service is usually quick and friendly, and the food always feels fresh. If you’re tired of subpar fast-food chicken, Cane’s is a game-changer.
9. Shake Shack (Try Instead)
Shake Shack might not be the cheapest burger joint, but you get what you pay for. Their burgers are made with high-quality beef, cooked perfectly, and topped with fresh ingredients. The crinkle-cut fries are crispy and addictive, and their shakes are thick and creamy. If you want a fast-casual burger that feels gourmet, this is the spot.
What really sets Shake Shack apart is the flavor—their signature ShackSauce adds a tangy, slightly sweet kick. Unlike many fast-food chains, they don’t skimp on portion sizes or quality. The atmosphere is also a step up, making it a more enjoyable experience than your typical burger spot. If you’re craving a classic American meal done right, Shake Shack delivers.
10. MOD Pizza (Try Instead)
MOD Pizza takes the fast-casual pizza concept and perfects it. You can build your own pizza with unlimited toppings for one flat price, making it a great value. The thin crust is cooked to perfection, with a crispy, slightly charred edge that gives it a real pizzeria feel. Unlike Domino’s, every bite actually tastes fresh and flavorful.
They also offer plenty of unique topping choices, including pesto drizzle, fresh basil, and spicy chicken sausage. Since each pizza is made to order, you don’t have to worry about getting a soggy, lukewarm pie. The fast, friendly service is another plus, making it a great alternative to traditional pizza chains. If you love customizing your food, MOD is a winner.
11. Texas Roadhouse (Try Instead)
If you want a sit-down restaurant that actually gives you quality for your money, Texas Roadhouse is the way to go. Their hand-cut steaks are leagues better than what you’ll find at Applebee’s or Chili’s, and they’re surprisingly affordable. The rolls with cinnamon butter alone are worth the visit, and they keep them coming for free. Plus, their sides—like loaded baked potatoes and seasoned green beans—actually taste homemade.
Another standout feature is the lively, welcoming atmosphere and solid service. Unlike many chain restaurants, Texas Roadhouse takes pride in making food fresh rather than reheating frozen dishes. Portions are generous, and you can even pick out your steak from their display before they cook it. If you want a casual steakhouse that won’t disappoint, this is the place to go.
